Joe Alwyn has addressed his breakup with Taylor Swift for the first time, along with the rumors suggesting that several tracks on *The Tortured Poets Department* were inspired by their split.
In a profile published by The Sunday Times on Saturday, June 15, Alwyn, 33, discussed his thoughts on the breakup and Swift’s new album.
“When considering what to say, I hope everyone can empathize… This isn’t a direct answer to your question, but rather my reflection on what I want to discuss,” Alwyn explained.
“I would hope that people can understand the challenges that come with ending a long, loving, and committed relationship of over six and a half years.”
He continued, “Going through this is difficult. What makes this situation unusual is that, just a week later, it becomes public and is subject to external scrutiny.”
Alwyn and Swift, 34, were in a relationship for six years from 2016 until early 2023. It was confirmed in April 2023 that they had ended their romance during the initial phase of Swift’s Eras Tour.
Fans have speculated that Swift’s album, which was released in April, reflects on their breakup.
“So, something very real is suddenly thrust into an unreal context: tabloids, social media, press, where it is then analyzed, speculated upon, and distorted,” Alwyn told the British outlet. “There will always be a gap between what is known and what is said. I’ve come to terms with that.”
He added, “As everyone knows, we both decided to keep the more private aspects of our relationship private. It was never meant to be commercialized, and I see no reason to change that now.”
Swift, who is currently in a relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce, and Alwyn have both moved on since their split.
“This was also a little over a year ago now, and I feel fortunate to be in a really good place in my life, both professionally and personally. I feel very positive,” Alwyn said. “As I mentioned, there will always be a discrepancy between what is known and what is said.”
Alwyn, who stars in The Kinds of Kindness, chose not to disclose whether he remains in contact with Swift or if he has started dating again.
“I’m sure you can understand, given the intense scrutiny of my previous relationship, why I wouldn’t want to open up about these things at the moment,” he said. “I try to stay grounded in reality and avoid the online noise from platforms like Twitter and focus on living in the present.”
